The Lakers came into the game 43-36, desperately needing a win to retain the eighth spot in the east.

And this was no easy task, considering the loss of Bryant with his torn ACL.

Howard stepped up big in this game, finishing with 26 points and 17 rebounds, including a late game tip to help seal the victory.

Steve Blake also played a key role in the Laker’s victory. Due to Kobe Bryant’s injury this was his first game in the starting lineup, and he finished with 23 points.

Sensational!

Gasol also came up big, but not in the most conventional way. The big man struggled from the field, making only 3 of 17 shots from the field, but was able to pull down 17 rebounds from the field.

Antawn Jamison also stepped up for the Laker’s bench as he scored 15 of the bench’s 19 total points.

The Spurs put up a good fight, but were not able to pull out the victory.

Players like Tim Duncan and Danny Green were able to give them scintillating scoring outputs. While Tiago Splitter was able to continuously crash the boards.

It was a great victory for the Lakers, crucial for obtaining the eight spot in the west.

The team has one more game on April 17 against the Rockets.

If they can win, or if the Jazz lose their next game against the Timberwolves, the Lakers will clinch a 2013 playoff birth.

Let’s hope Rubio has a big game!

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Written by Michael Cole
My name is Michael and I like basketball.
I am the most avid Kobe Bryant fan you will ever meet.
I am trying to get my career going as both a player and a writer.
Enough said.